Definition

Adhesions are scars that form within the body. They usually form in the abdomen or pelvis. Adhesions develop naturally after surgery as part of the healing process. They can also develop after infection or any other inflammatory process, such as:

Anesthesia

Description of the Procedure

This surgery is usually done
laparoscopically
. When you are asleep, a needle will be inserted to inject a gas into the abdomen. The gas will make the abdomen expand. This will make it easier to see the organs. The laparoscope will then be inserted through a small hole that is cut in the skin. The laparoscope lights, magnifies, and projects an image onto a screen. The area will be inspected. Several small incisions will be made in the wall of the abdomen.
Using small instruments that are put through these holes, the adhesions will be cut out. Doing so will free the organs that were caught in the adhesions.

In some cases, the doctor may need to switch to or do open abdominal surgery (called
laparotomy
). A larger incision will be made in the abdomen. This will allow direct access to all of the organs. The adhesions will be cut out.

How Long Will It Take?

1-3 hours

How Much Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications.

Average Hospital Stay

This surgery is done in a hospital setting. If you have laparoscopic surgery, you will be able to leave that day or the next. If you have open surgery, you will need to stay in the hospital for a few days. You may need to stay longer if you have complications.

Post-procedure Care

Preventing Infection

During your stay, the hospital staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection, such as:

Washing their hands

Wearing gloves or masks

Keeping your incisions covered

There are also steps you can take to reduce your chance of infection, such as:

Washing your hands often and reminding your healthcare providers to do the same

Reminding your healthcare providers to wear gloves or masks

Not allowing others to touch your incision

At Home

Some activities will be restricted until the wounds are fully healed. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions.

Call Your Doctor

It is important to monitor your recovery. Alert your doctor to any problems. If any of the following occur, call your doctor:

Signs of infection, including fever and chills

Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge from the incision site

Pain that you cannot control with the medications you have been given

Persistent nausea and/or vomiting

Diarrhea, constipation, bloody stool, or black stool

Abdominal swelling

Trouble urinating

Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain

If you think you are having an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.

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